Do I need a permit for the manure generated by my animals?

The Oregon Department of Agriculture issues a Confined Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) permit to livestock owners so manure does not pollute ground and surface water.

There are three main factors that determine if your farm needs a CAFO permit:

How many animals you have.

How long the animals are confined for in a prepared area (e.g. in a barn, lot, pen).

How the manure and wastewater generated by the farm is stored (e.g. do you collect your m​anure in a tank or do you stack it in a pile).

​Reference table 1 in the CAFO permit (see current permit and related materials below) to determine whether the permit is required. For more information, see the CAFO geographic boundaries resource to contact the livestock water quality specialist in your area.

Applying for a permit

For operators not currently permitted, complete Application to Register​ (ATR) to the Oregon CAFO permit and review the animal waste management plan minimum requirements when completing section IV of the ATR.

CAFO permit fees

There is a $50 application fee when applying for a permit and an annual permit fee. Depending on the size of your operation, the annual permit fee is

$100 for a small CAFO

$200 for a medium CAFO

$300 for a large CAFO

Reference table 1 in the CAFO permit (see current permit and related materials below) to determine the size of your operation.

What if I need a CAFO permit but decide not to get one?

Failing to apply for a CAFO permit, if required, is a violation of state law and you may be assessed a financial penalty.

Public no​tices

Activities within the CAFO Program require public notice and participation opportunities. For details on noticing and public participation requirements, reference table 2 of the CAFO permit​​.